The NASA compound in Namaka, Nadi, was officially returned to Fiji Airports Limited by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, marking the end of its military usage which began in 1987 under the Compulsory Acquisition Act. This facility was initially located to enhance security following a hijacking attempt at Nadi International Airport. Rabuka noted, “We applied the Compulsory Acquisition Act for the protection of the Nadi Airport,” explaining that the military’s presence aimed to provide quicker response times by situating resources closer to the airport.
Yesterday’s handover was significant not only because Rabuka facilitated the acquisition in 1987, but it also aligns with the implementation of the Nadi International Airport Master Plan, vital for future developments in Fiji’s aviation infrastructure. Fiji Airports CEO, Mesake Nawari, expressed gratitude for the Prime Minister’s involvement in this historical event. He emphasized the emotional weight of witnessing this transition after 38 years, referring to the compound as the Nadi Airport Sports Association, popularly known as NASA.
Nawari mentioned that the return of this compound marks a vital step toward advancing the Nadi Airport Landside Master Plan, which aims to improve local facilities and enhance the overall travel experience. He also acknowledged the military for its management of the facility and its role in ensuring the airport’s security over the years.
This event showcases Fiji’s commitment to modernizing its airport facilities, with plans set to redefine and elevate the capabilities at Nadi Airport. As noted in similar recent discussions, these developments are part of Fiji Airports’ larger ambition for operational excellence and economic growth through improved infrastructure, such as the comprehensive implementation of the Landside Master Plan.
With these enhancements, Fiji is eager to cement its reputation as a premier aviation hub in the Pacific, which bodes well for boosting tourism and regional connectivity. The return of the NASA compound is not just a formal ending of a military era but signifies a fresh chapter focused on community engagement and infrastructural development, promising a bright and prosperous future for the aviation sector in Fiji.
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